Whether you're already keeping bees or simply curious about what beekeeping involves, there will be something for you in this class. We'll cover some basics on bees, the progress of bees through the seasons, and what to expect as bee colonies prepare for the chillier and darker days of winter. Also, we'll outline how you can prepare for beekeeping in 2020 if you are interested in starting your own hive.
The class is designed for absolute beginners so no prerequisite knowledge is required. There will be a hands-on hive inspection, weather permitting. Protective clothing will be provided.
There will be a class outline, suggested reading and further recommendations provided.
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INSTRUCTORS: Paul Koski, Marc Johnson, Pilar Leano
Paul Koski of the San Francisco Beekeeper Association has been beekeeping in San Francisco for decades. He takes care of some of the GFE beehives and manages other hives around San Francisco.
Marc Johnson and Pilar LeanoBeekeeping Instructors, Pizza Makers
Marc and Pilar went through GFE's Get Up! program in 2010 and have volunteered at the garden since. They first put hives at GFE in early 2015 and manage about a dozen hives, mostly in Western SF. Marc is on the board of the SF Beekeepers Association and both volunteer time and effort to promote urban beekeeping.
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FAQs
What are my transportation/parking options?
Although there is street parking available, it can be challenging on weekends. Public transportation is frequent and nearby, so it's a great option! The 6, 36, 43, and 44, bus lines and the N Judah all run within a few blocks of the garden. Forest Hill Station is also nearby and you can take the 43 or 44 directly from there to the garden.
What should I bring to the workshop?
Classes are held outside in our teaching garden. We recommend bringing a hat and sunscreen, comfortable closed toed shoes, a full water bottle, and lots of layers. You may also want to bring a notebook to take notes on what you are learning and you are welcome to bring food and join us for a picnic lunch in the garden at noon. Bee suits or bee jackets, and gloves, will be provided for safety.
Do you ever cancel workshops?
We try our best not to cancel, but if the weather forecast suggests it is very likely to be pouring rain, we will cancel the workshop and notify attendees by 5pm the day before. We do hold classes in drizzling weather, however, so come prepared with rain gear. We are also occasionally forced to cancel workshops due to other unforeseen circumstances. In any case, we will happily register you for another workshop or refund your workshop fee.
Happy beekeeping!
Whether you're already keeping bees or simply curious about what beekeeping involves, there will be something for you in this class. We'll cover some basics on bees, the progress of bees through the seasons, and what to expect as bee colonies prepare for the chillier and darker days of winter. Also, we'll outline how you can prepare for beekeeping in 2020 if you are interested in starting your own hive.
The class is designed for absolute beginners so no prerequisite knowledge is required. There will be a hands-on hive inspection, weather permitting. Protective clothing will be provided.
There will be a class outline, suggested reading and further recommendations provided.
---
INSTRUCTORS: Paul Koski, Marc Johnson, Pilar Leano
Paul Koski of the San Francisco Beekeeper Association has been beekeeping in San Francisco for decades. He takes care of some of the GFE beehives and manages other hives around San Francisco.
Marc Johnson and Pilar LeanoBeekeeping Instructors, Pizza Makers
Marc and Pilar went through GFE's Get Up! program in 2010 and have volunteered at the garden since. They first put hives at GFE in early 2015 and manage about a dozen hives, mostly in Western SF. Marc is on the board of the SF Beekeepers Association and both volunteer time and effort to promote urban beekeeping.
---
FAQs
What are my transportation/parking options?
Although there is street parking available, it can be challenging on weekends. Public transportation is frequent and nearby, so it's a great option! The 6, 36, 43, and 44, bus lines and the N Judah all run within a few blocks of the garden. Forest Hill Station is also nearby and you can take the 43 or 44 directly from there to the garden.
What should I bring to the workshop?
Classes are held outside in our teaching garden. We recommend bringing a hat and sunscreen, comfortable closed toed shoes, a full water bottle, and lots of layers. You may also want to bring a notebook to take notes on what you are learning and you are welcome to bring food and join us for a picnic lunch in the garden at noon. Bee suits or bee jackets, and gloves, will be provided for safety.
Do you ever cancel workshops?
We try our best not to cancel, but if the weather forecast suggests it is very likely to be pouring rain, we will cancel the workshop and notify attendees by 5pm the day before. We do hold classes in drizzling weather, however, so come prepared with rain gear. We are also occasionally forced to cancel workshops due to other unforeseen circumstances. In any case, we will happily register you for another workshop or refund your workshop fee.
Happy beekeeping!
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